ZHENGZHOU: Sweden’s Jonas Andersson clinched a decisive victory in the Grand Prix of Zhengzhou, China, propelling him to the top of the 2024 UIM F1H2O World Championship standings. The race, marked by several incidents, sets the stage for a dramatic finale in Sharjah, where the championship will conclude.
According to Emirates News Agency, Team Abu Dhabi’s Thani Al Qemzi was among the racers affected by the tumultuous competition, as he retired early due to technical difficulties. Meanwhile, Sharjah Team’s Rusty Wyatt, who previously led the championship, faced mechanical issues that ended his race prematurely. A collision between Erik Stark and Ahmad Al Fahim resulted in both Victory Team drivers exiting the race, further shaking up the leaderboard.
With this victory, defending world champion Andersson now holds a slim three-point advantage over Canadian newcomer Wyatt as they head into the final round in Sharjah. Frenchman Peter Morin moved into third place in the championship standings, surpassing Stark
after finishing second in Zhengzhou.
For Team Abu Dhabi, the race in Zhengzhou was fraught with challenges. Rashed Al Qemzi, a five-time F2 world champion, was unable to participate due to issues from the previous day’s sprint race. Al Qemzi’s retirement added to the team’s woes, as they look forward to a potential comeback in Sharjah, where Thani Al Qemzi debuted in 2020 and secured a podium finish last year.
Andersson, who had already secured his second world title before the championship reached Sharjah last season, aims to continue his success. However, Wyatt, who has had an impressive debut season with victories in Indonesia, Sardinia, and Shanghai, will strive to prevent Andersson from repeating his previous performances.
The Zhengzhou race saw early disruptions, with Stark and Al Fahim’s collision sending both Victory boats out of contention. American racer Brent Dillard also faced difficulties, rolling to a stop in the opening lap. Despite the challenges, Andersson maintained control, claiming his
15th Grand Prix win with a significant lead over Morin. Finland’s Sami Selio completed the podium finishes.
The current standings for the championship are as follows:
1. Jonas Andersson (SWE) – 99 points
2. Rusty Wyatt (CAN) – 96 points
3. Peter Morin (FRA) – 79.5 points
4. Erik Stark (SWE) – 77.5 points
5. Bartek Marszalek (POL) – 64 points
6. Sami Selio (FIN) – 52 points
7. Marit Stromoy (NOR) – 42 points
8. Stefan Arand (EST) – 34.5 points
9. Ferdinand Zandbergen (NED) – 30.5 points
10. Thani Al Qemzi (UAE) – 27.5 points